Which statement best reflects the nursing ethics principle of justice?

• A. Autonomy
• B. Beneficence
• C. Nonmaleficence
• D. Justice

Answer: (D)

Justice in nursing ethics means fairness in how care and resources are distributed and ensuring that every patient is treated impartially. It requires providing equal access to treatment, pain relief, and other health services regardless of a patient’s background, socioeconomic status, or personal characteristics. This principle guides actions like fair triage during shortages, avoiding bias in who gets certain medications or therapies, and advocating for policies that prevent discrimination in care.

Autonomy focuses on respecting a patient’s right to make their own decisions about their care. Beneficence is about promoting good and taking actions that benefit the patient. Nonmaleficence is the obligation to do no harm. While these are important, they address individual patient rights and well-being rather than the distribution of care across all patients. Justice explicitly emphasizes fairness and equal treatment, which is why it best reflects that principle.